General Description: Merlot is one of the world’s most popular red wine grape varieties, originating from the Bordeaux region of France. It plays a crucial role both as a varietal wine and as a key blending component in Bordeaux wines, particularly those from the Right Bank. Merlot is appreciated for its soft, velvety tannins, medium to full body, and ripe, juicy fruit flavours. The grape adapts well to various climates, resulting in a wide range of wine styles from different regions, including the United States (notably California and Washington), Italy, and Australia. Merlot wines can range from easy-drinking, fruit-forward styles to more structured, complex wines with aging potential.
Primary Flavours:
- Black cherry
- Plum
- Blackberry
- Chocolate
- Bay leaf
- Vanilla (when aged in oak)
Taste Profile:
- Sweet-Dry: Dry
- Body: Medium to full body
- Tannins: Medium to soft
- Acidity: Medium
- ABV range: Typically between 13% to 14.5%
Handling: Merlot is best served at a slightly cooler temperature than heavier reds, around 16°C to 18°C, to highlight its fruit flavours and smooth texture. While many Merlots are designed to be enjoyed young, more complex and structured examples from premier vineyards have the potential to age gracefully, developing richer flavours and softer tannins over time.
Food Pairing Suggestions: The versatility of Merlot makes it a suitable pairing for a broad range of dishes. Its soft tannins and ripe fruit profile pair well with red meats, poultry, and hearty vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto or lentil stew. The wine’s smoothness complements grilled or roasted dishes, and its acidity can balance the richness of creamy sauces. Merlot also pairs nicely with a variety of cheeses, especially medium and hard varieties.